Professional development opportunity for university educators: the LOESS online module on socially engaged research and education
Published: on 4.6.2025
Are you a higher education educator interested in innovative approaches to teaching that connect students to real-world challenges? The LOESS project invites you to join an international online learning module focused on soil health education and Community Engaged Research and Learning (CERL).
What is Community Engaged Research and Learning (CERL)?
CERL is a form of experiential learning in which students work with community partners on real-world projects. This enhances their learning while benefiting the community. The module will show you how CERL can enrich your teaching and support the EU's objectives of civic engagement, sustainability and lifelong learning.
What to expect:
- Duration: October - November 2025
- Format: 4 webinars, 2 optional support sessions and 16 hours of self-study
- Topics: CERL principles, ethical collaboration, digital tools (crowd-mapping, AR), project design
- Webinar dates: 10 October, 24 October, 7 November, 21 November (15:00 - 16:00 CET)
What you will get:
- Certificate of completion,
- the opportunity to publish your CERL project plan on the LOESS website,
- networking with educators from all over Europe,
- Support from the LOESS team and access to innovative tools.
Who can join?
Educators from all disciplines - no expertise in soil science is required. If you want to engage students in meaningful, community-connected learning, this module is for you.
How to apply?
Complete the online application form by 16 June 2025. Selection of participants will be made by the module facilitators in collaboration with local LOESS partners.
For more information, see the attached module guide or join one of the scheduled information sessions.
